Elgin Railway Market, Western Cape South Africa

Elgin Railway Market

Dave and I decided that a great way to spend a Saturday morning was to head to the Elgin Railway Market. They are open Friday, Saturday and Sundays and if you are in the mood, you can take the steam train there. However, we decided to take a drive and arrived shortly before 11.30am. There is ample parking and the stunning building certainly gives you an impression of what you will find inside.

So Many Things To Buy At Elgin Railway Market

We decided to first browse around before doing any shopping. My eye was instantly attracted to the proteas as we walked in, the slabs of tree turned into tables, and the glass dome housing wine bottles. Dave and I would have left with a table had the tree man been reasonable with his pricing. The tables are made from recovered wood being cleared out of the Tokai Forest after the fires. These dead trees will hopefully grace some homes, but sadly not ours at R14 000.00.

A little bit of shopping

Before looking any further we had espressi from Ground Central. They were hot and served quickly, just as one would expect. We found a shop selling bread and bought a baguette, together with some gorgonzola. Once again, pricing came into consideration and I did not purchase a bottle of sugar-free cordial. No matter how good, I felt that R120 was too pricey. I will however go back for their farm butter next time I need. After sampling a few fudges at The Fudge Kitchen Dave and I came home with a slice of salted caramel and choc chilli. The latter being a gift for Bev. My eyes were drawn to the rose meringues by Pudding & Pie (shop in Kleinmond), and the toffee apples.

Sweet Treat At Elgin Railway Market

Lunch

Of course I could not resist browsing around the fresh fruit & vegetable stand but only came home with a bag of beetroot. I was taken back to my childhood when I saw the Mancala board game. One day I might even consider buying one. I spent an age looking at the leather purses and wish I could make up my mind what I want. I need a new one and many of the ones for sale at the market are RFID secure. The wine tasting room promises prices at cellar door and their selection of MCC’s is really good.

Fresh Produce At Elgin Railway Market

For lunch there are loads of choices and plenty of tables! You can sit downstairs near the fire, the buzz and the live band. Or upstairs, or even outside overlooking the valley. Drinks vary from beer and cider on tap to freshly pressed juices and the most amazing gin cocktails.

Gin Cocktails At Elgin Railway Market

Dave and I settled on a plate of prawns (R120) and mussels in white wine cream sauce (R90) for lunch. It took me straight back to Borough Market. Dave had the L-Gin Lush cocktail made with L-Gin gin and tonic and garnished with apple slice and mint. The gin will hopefully be for sale soon for off site consumption. I had the Six Dogs Blue gin and tonic garnished with pomegranate and lavender. The cocktails are R60 each and the glasses have a R30 deposit.

Our Lunch At Elgin Railway Market

Dave and I are overseas in Italy. We will be back at work on the 1st of October. I will start replying to comments then. I won’t be able to read any blogs while we are away so please forgive my lack of visiting back. You can follow our trip by taking a look at our holiday blog.

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Published by Tandy

I am passionate about using regional, seasonable and sustainable produce when I cook. I live in Gordons Bay with my husband and dogs. Dave and I are busy building a house which is an adventure all in itself. Each year we visit a new place overseas to experience the food of the area. Follow along on our adventures!
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I’ve been so tempted to visit but for some reason, my brain got stuck on the idea of taking the ridiculously priced steam train – I never considered just driving there. Looks like I will have to make a plan to take the family there soon. Wishing you safe travels and a wonderful time in Eataly 😜

Hi Tandy,
We just read your comments on the Reverence Wood tables, perhaps it would have been more accurate if you had mentioned that the 1 table, made from 150 year old wood, was the most expensive one on offer? There are plenty of other tables and stumps which range from 550 upwards. We make a point of catering to all budgets.

Hi, and thank you for taking the time to comment. The slab of wood we looked at was the one I mentioned. I blog from my perspective and I’m sure my readers will appreciate that, as well as the information you have included here.

All sounded noshable,Tandy.; interesting place. But oh you’re in Italy now!. I just love that country. ‘Im indoors and I have been twice.In Florence (re ‘Room with a View’) I dearly wanted one; we of course tried straightening the Leaning Tower, and delighted in and on Lake Garda (delicious pastries in Riva)..And oh Verona and Venice…..Really looking forward to YOUR take on Italy. Best wishes.